The invention relates to a device (200) for measuring a current through a choke (130) of a voltage converter (100) comprising an integrator circuit (140), an amplifier circuit and an NTC resistor (160). The amplifier circuit comprises an inverting and a non-inverting amplifier input connection (152, 154) and an amplifier output connection (156). The non-inverting amplifier input connection (154) is supplied with an amplifier input signal according to an integrator output signal. A voltage signal characterising the current through the choke (130) is applied at the amplifier output connection (156) of the amplifier circuit. The NTC resistor (160) is arranged in the feedback path of the amplifier circuit between the inverting amplifier input connection (152) and the amplifier output connection (156).
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2. The device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the amplifier circuit comprises an operational amplifier (150), which operates as a non-inverting operational amplifier.
A device includes an amplifier circuit designed to amplify signals with improved stability and performance. The amplifier circuit incorporates an operational amplifier configured as a non-inverting amplifier. In this configuration, the operational amplifier receives an input signal at its non-inverting input terminal, while the inverting input terminal is connected to a feedback network. The feedback network, which may include resistors or other components, determines the gain of the amplifier. The non-inverting configuration ensures that the output signal is in phase with the input signal, providing a stable and predictable amplification process. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring precise signal conditioning, such as in measurement systems, instrumentation, and communication devices, where maintaining signal integrity and minimizing distortion are critical. The operational amplifier's non-inverting setup helps reduce noise and improve linearity, making it suitable for high-precision applications. The overall device leverages this amplifier circuit to enhance signal processing capabilities, ensuring accurate and reliable performance in various electronic systems.
5. The device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein in the feedback path of the amplifier circuit, between the inverting amplifier input terminal (152) and the amplifier output terminal (156), a series resistor (162) is arranged in series with the NTC resistor (160) and a parallel resistor (164) is arranged in parallel with the series circuit consisting of series resistor (162) and NTC resistor (160).
This invention relates to amplifier circuits with improved thermal stability, particularly for applications where temperature variations can affect performance. The problem addressed is the drift in amplifier gain and offset due to temperature changes, which can degrade signal integrity in precision applications. The solution involves a feedback network in the amplifier circuit that includes a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) resistor to compensate for temperature-induced variations. The feedback path of the amplifier circuit includes an inverting input terminal and an output terminal. Between these terminals, a series resistor is connected in series with the NTC resistor, and a parallel resistor is connected in parallel with the combined series circuit of the series resistor and the NTC resistor. This configuration allows the feedback network to dynamically adjust resistance as temperature changes, counteracting thermal drift and maintaining stable amplifier performance. The NTC resistor's resistance decreases with increasing temperature, while the fixed resistors provide a reference to balance the feedback loop. This design ensures that the amplifier's gain and offset remain consistent across a range of operating temperatures, making it suitable for high-precision applications such as instrumentation, medical devices, and industrial control systems.
6. The device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a first filter capacitor (166) is arranged in parallel with the NTC resistor (160).
A device for electrical power systems includes a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) resistor connected in series with a power supply to limit inrush current during startup. The NTC resistor reduces resistance as it heats up, allowing normal operation once the initial surge is mitigated. To improve performance, a first filter capacitor is connected in parallel with the NTC resistor. This capacitor smooths voltage fluctuations and reduces noise in the power supply circuit, enhancing stability and efficiency. The parallel arrangement ensures the capacitor operates effectively without interfering with the NTC resistor's inrush current protection function. The combination of the NTC resistor and filter capacitor provides a balanced solution for managing transient currents while maintaining clean power delivery. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring both inrush current protection and stable power output, such as industrial equipment, automotive systems, or renewable energy converters. The filter capacitor's placement ensures optimal filtering without compromising the NTC resistor's primary function, resulting in a robust and reliable power conditioning system.
7. The device (200) as claimed in claim 4, wherein a second filter capacitor (168) is arranged in parallel with the first voltage divider resistor (177) or the second voltage divider resistor (178).
A device for electrical power conversion includes a voltage divider circuit with a first and second resistor to measure voltage levels. The device addresses the problem of inaccurate voltage measurements due to noise and transient fluctuations in power conversion systems. To improve measurement stability, a second filter capacitor is connected in parallel with either the first or second voltage divider resistor. This configuration reduces high-frequency noise and transient disturbances, ensuring more accurate voltage readings. The filter capacitor smooths voltage fluctuations, particularly in applications where precise voltage monitoring is critical, such as in power supplies, inverters, or battery management systems. The parallel arrangement of the filter capacitor with the voltage divider resistor provides a low-pass filtering effect without significantly altering the voltage division ratio. This solution enhances measurement reliability in dynamic electrical environments while maintaining simplicity in circuit design. The device is particularly useful in systems where voltage stability is essential for performance and safety.
8. A voltage converter (100) having a device (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the voltage converter is designed as an inverter, a DC converter or as a charging device.
A voltage converter is designed to convert electrical voltage between different levels, addressing the need for efficient and adaptable power conversion in various applications. The converter includes a device that regulates voltage conversion by controlling the flow of electrical current through switching elements, ensuring stable output voltage under varying load conditions. This device incorporates a control circuit that monitors input and output parameters, dynamically adjusting switching frequencies or duty cycles to optimize conversion efficiency and reduce power losses. The voltage converter can be configured as an inverter, converting direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) for applications such as solar power systems or battery storage, or as a DC converter, stepping up or down voltage levels for electronic devices. Additionally, it can function as a charging device, providing regulated power to rechargeable batteries in electric vehicles or portable electronics. The converter's modular design allows integration with different power sources and loads, enhancing versatility in renewable energy systems, industrial machinery, and consumer electronics. The system ensures reliable operation by minimizing voltage fluctuations and thermal stress, improving overall system longevity.
9. A drive train (300) of a vehicle (290) having a voltage converter (100) as claimed in claim 8.
A drive train for a vehicle includes a voltage converter designed to regulate power distribution between a high-voltage battery and a low-voltage electrical system. The voltage converter operates as a bidirectional DC-DC converter, allowing energy transfer in both directions to balance power demands. It features a primary side connected to the high-voltage battery and a secondary side connected to the low-voltage system, with a transformer for voltage conversion. The converter includes a primary-side switch and a secondary-side switch, each controlled by a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal to regulate current flow. A control circuit monitors voltage levels and adjusts switching frequencies to maintain stable power delivery. The drive train integrates this converter to manage energy flow efficiently, ensuring optimal performance of the vehicle's electrical components while preventing overloading or voltage instability. The system is particularly useful in electric or hybrid vehicles where power management between high-voltage propulsion systems and low-voltage auxiliary systems is critical. The converter's bidirectional capability enables regenerative braking and energy recovery, enhancing overall energy efficiency. The design ensures compatibility with varying voltage requirements, supporting both charging and discharging operations seamlessly.
10. A vehicle (290) having a drive train (300) as claimed in claim 9.
A vehicle includes a drive train system designed to improve efficiency and performance. The drive train system comprises a power source, such as an internal combustion engine or an electric motor, connected to a transmission. The transmission includes a gearbox with multiple gear ratios to optimize power delivery based on driving conditions. The system also features a torque converter or clutch mechanism to manage power transfer between the power source and the transmission. Additionally, the drive train may include a differential to distribute torque to the vehicle's wheels, ensuring smooth and controlled propulsion. The design allows for adaptive gear shifting and torque modulation to enhance fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and improve overall drivability. The vehicle's drive train is engineered to handle varying loads and speeds while maintaining optimal performance across different driving scenarios, such as urban commuting, highway cruising, or off-road conditions. The integration of advanced control systems enables real-time adjustments to power delivery, ensuring responsiveness and efficiency. This drive train configuration is particularly useful in modern vehicles where performance, efficiency, and environmental impact are critical considerations.
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October 27, 2020
May 21, 2024
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